President’s Message (August 2021)

A message from ASCE Texas Section President Sean P. Merrell PE, PTOE, RAS, F.ASCE (2020-2021)

Howdy. It has been many months since I have reached out to our ASCE Texas Section members and a lot has been going on. The first thing I want to talk about is The Texas Civil Engineering Conference (CECON) happening September 15-17. The largest civil engineering conference in Texas offers a snapshot of the best in Texas civil engineering, while providing unique opportunities to learn and build relationships across the state. It is not too late to register and have the most fun a Civil Engineer can legally have. We will also celebrate many of our section award winners at our annual CECON Gala & ASCE Texas Annual Awards Ceremony. It is also not too late to become a sponsor or exhibitor. What a great way to get in front of potential clients and customers.

It is great to see our ASCE members finally getting to meet in person after a year and a half. Last month I was able to play in the Austin YMF Golf Tournament at the beautiful Avery Ranch Golf Club. It was a great turn out on a very hot afternoon, but a lot of money was raised for many great causes. Many deer were on the golf course and were curious as to why we were out in the hot sun chasing a little white ball with a crooked stick. I also attended the Dallas Branch (my home branch) August meeting in person after many months apart. It was great seeing our members in person once again. I hope your branch is planning to meet in person soon. I do want to stress the need for precautions still as this pandemic is not over yet.

Late summer is an exciting time of year as many branches are conducting (or at least planning) their upcoming elections. It is great to see so many people stepping up and getting involved with ASCE. The more people that volunteer, the lighter the load is on everyone. If you are interested in serving at the Texas Section level, committee openings and officer nominations will be coming up soon. Believe me, I’ve been paid back much more than I have put in while serving as a volunteer in ASCE.

Lastly, I want to highlight and thank our global ASCE President, Dr. Jean-Louis Briaud PE, D.GE, Dist.M.ASCE and his wife Janet. They have recently announced a $1 million gift to the ASCE Foundation. This is the largest donation in the Society’s history. This gift will be used to support ASCE student activities. ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith said “The Briauds’ commitment to making a positive and lasting difference is a wonderful example of the power and enduring impact of philanthropy, and we are grateful for their leadership, generosity, and support”. This is truly generous and great way to give back to the profession. Did you know the Texas Section also has a foundation? Established in 2004, the Texas Civil Engineering Foundation (TCEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and private foundation that supports the educational, technical and professional activities and programs of ASCE Texas Section. I’m not sure how many of you have a million dollars at your disposal, but TCEF would surely benefit from any size donation you may have to help support our programs and activities here at ASCE Texas. If you have any questions about TCEF, or wish to be a contributor or sponsor, please contact the current TCEF President at [email protected].

Thank you, stay cool these last few months of summer and get those kids ready for school. But above all…HAVE FUN!!!

Sean P. Merrell, PE, PTOE, RAS, F.ASCE
ASCE Texas Section President, 2020-2021
ASCE Region 6 Governor